Isuzu KB launch

I love any excuse to be out of the office and experience the outdoors. So I accepted the invite for the launch of the all-new Isuzu KB with much excitement.

My day started off on a hectic note. I was stuck in traffic on my way to OR Tambo International Airport and missed my flight to Hoedspruit, Limpopo province. I thought of going back to the office to work on my never-ending deadlines, but I couldn’t resist the allure of bundu-bashing and experiencing the offroad capabilities of the KB. So I hustled and managed to get the second flight to Hoedspruit.

The design
In a market that is dominated by the likes of the Toyota Hilux and the Ford Ranger, can the KB 6th generation shake things up? Well, the newcomer opens up a whole new world of lifestyle possibilities (it can be used as an everyday vehicle, too), while staying true to its heritage as a bakkie. Design elements include a bold front with reconfigured lights, high-raised body and flex doors on the Extended Cab models, which opens for easy access to the rear space. The new KB is 260mm longer, 60mm wider and taller than its predecessor, which was launched back in 2004. The towbar has been specially designed to be integrated into the rear step bumper for the SA market.

The KB shares the interior centre console with the Chevrolet Trailblazer. I guess it makes financial and business sense to interchange and use the same design and feature elements within the General Motors’ stable. I liked the look and feel of the three-spoke steering wheel with controls.

The drive
The last time I went off-roading was in November last year on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class launch. My off-roading skills and capabilities aren't the best, so I took the keys with caution and excitement. We wasted no time and made our way to the 4×4 track to experience the off-road capabilities of this workhorse. We had to partake in nine off-road challenges and the KB didn’t disappoint.

If you own a 4×4 and havent driven off-road, do yourself a favour and go on a course and go bundu-bashing. And if you’ve been toying with the idea of owning a bakkie, book yourself a test drive with Isuzu and experience it for yourself.